WISCONSIN FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Streamflow conditions across Wisconsin reveal diverse trends, with some rivers experiencing significant deviations from normal flows. Notably, the Fox River at Oshkosh reports a current streamflow of 6330 cubic feet per second (cfs), showing an increase of 9.71 cfs in the last 24 hours and running at a considerable 50.74 percent above the norm, which suggests potential for flooding and could impact water-based activities. Conversely, the Sheboygan River at Sheboygan, with a current streamflow of 159 cfs, is 63.62 percent below normal, indicating a flow drought that may affect local ecosystems and water availability. Whitewater enthusiasts should note that the Peshtigo River at Porterfield is flowing at 1080 cfs, up 9.09 cfs, and is 46.66 percent above normal, possibly affecting conditions on popular whitewater trails.
Major rivers like the Mississippi River at Prescott are flowing at 14000 cfs, slightly below normal, with a gage height of 25.36 feet, while the Wisconsin River near Wisconsin Dells is at 8300 cfs, 34.2 percent above normal flow, suggesting a healthy streamflow that may interest kayakers and anglers. In contrast, the Kickapoo River at Steuben, known for its recreational appeal, is at 437 cfs, down 13.12 cfs, and 29.63 percent below normal. Cities along these waterways, including Oshkosh, Sheboygan, and Wisconsin Dells, should be aware of the current water conditions, as they may influence flood risk management, water supply strategies, and recreational river use. Overall, the state presents a mosaic of streamflow conditions, reflecting the dynamic nature of Wisconsin's waterways.
Wisconsin is characterized by a humid continental climate with distinct seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation. Major rivers include the Mississippi, St. Croix, Wisconsin, and Menominee, which are fed by tributaries that drain into the Great Lakes or the Mississippi River. The region also contains numerous reservoirs and dams, including the Wisconsin River system and the Chippewa River. Hydrology in Wisconsin is affected by snowpack, which can lead to spring flooding, and by changes in land use and agricultural practices. In recent years, the state has experienced an increase in extreme precipitation events, leading to more frequent flooding and erosion. Overall, the state's hydrology is complex and influenced by multiple factors, including climate, topography, and human activity.
Explore Rivers
- Baraboo River
- Bark River
- Bear River
- Black River
- Bois Brule River
- Brule River
- Chippewa River
- Crawfish River
- East River
- Embarrass River
- Flambeau River
- Grant River
- Jump River
- Kewaunee River
- Kickapoo River
- Kinnickinnic River
- Lemonweir River
- Little Menomonee River
- Little Wolf River
- Manitowoc River
- Menominee River
- Menomonee River
- Milwaukee River
- Mississippi River
- Mukwonago River
- Namekagon River
- Nemadji River
- Oconto River
- Pecatonica River
- Peshtigo River
- Pike River
- Pine River
- Platte River
- Popple River
- Prairie River
- Puchyan River
- Rock River
- Root River
- Sheboygan River
- Spirit River
- Sugar River
- Tomorrow River
- Trempealeau River
- Trout River
- Waupaca River
- White River
- Willow River
- Wisconsin River
- Wolf River
- Yahara River
- Yellow River